Nashik Kumbh Set for Historic Ceremony With Mass Conch Blowing
The stage is being set in Nashik for a ceremony that organizers describe as one of the most significant events of the Kumbh. The flag hoisting on October 31 will be performed by President Droupadi Murmu, and preparations are underway across the city.
Bhakti Charan Das Maharaj, spokesperson for the Akhara Parishad, shared details of the programme on October 29. He said the administration is organizing a three-day event from October 30 to November 1, with the Simhastha authority, Municipal Corporation and administration working together.
He said two attractions will draw special attention. The first is a Shankhnad involving about 550 people. The second is a grand divine aarti performed simultaneously by about 6,500 tribal brothers and sisters.
Jagadguru Ramanandacharya Narendracharya said the President's arrival at the Nashik Kumbh is the first such occasion in the event's history and described it as a moment of pride and joy. He said the flag hoisting will take place in the presence of saints, with Vedic rites performed beforehand.
Bhakti Charan Das Maharaj thanked the invited guests, religious figures and akharas who accepted the invitation to Nashik. He said the event carries deep significance for the region and for Maharashtra.
He also highlighted the message of respect for women. He pointed out that the President, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Nashik's Mayor and the Municipal Commissioner are all women, and said the arrangements reflect respect for the President.
According to him, the administration is fully engaged in the preparations, and the event is expected to become a major attraction for the world. The proceedings will be watched on Thursday.
The organizers say the programme will also reach devotees who have never visited Ramkund or who are unfamiliar with the Godavari Kumbh. The Ramteerth Seva Samiti and administration are jointly organizing the event.
He said a long-standing divide between Nashik and Trimbakeshwar is being addressed, with the Shrimahants, Shankaracharyas, Ramanandacharyas and Vaishnavacharyas of all 13 akharas coming onto one stage. The divine aarti, a Godavari bhajan evening and other programmes will take place in the presence of the President.
He acknowledged the efforts of Mela Officer Shekhar Singh, Manisha Khatri, Giram Sahab, Girish Mahajan and other officials, and expressed confidence in the success of the event.
Jagadguru Ramanandacharya Narendracharya said the upcoming Simhastha is expected to be divine and grand. He said the procession will present many facets of Indian culture, including messages on environmental protection, cultural awareness, science and spirituality, with jhankis, cultural troupes and chariots.